Digging up the past in York

A series of public lectures hosted by the University of York – Digging up the Past – will explore York's rich archaeological heritage and investigate what it can tell us about the city’s past.

As well as explaining how information is gained from the wealth of archaeological finds in the city, the lectures will explore how archaeology can be used in unusual ways to engage marginalised groups and help us understand contemporary culture.

I'm really looking forward to hearing more about some of the latest research into our wonderfully rich archaeological heritage here in York

Dr Penny Spikins

The series begins with a lecture by John Oxley, City Archaeologist, on Thursday, 25 October, who will give an overview of the archaeological resource that exists, or is predicted to exist, in the City of York. He will examine the range of archaeological features, deposits, artefacts and ecofacts that have been found and recorded in a wide range of archaeological databases. He will also look at the research potential of this resource.

On 1 November, Rachael Kiddey, from the University’s Department of Archaeology, will give an overview of two archaeological projects that brought together homeless people, archaeologists and students in Bristol and York. Examining how the process of 'doing archaeology' aided a better understanding of a contemporary culture, the lecture will also investigate the potential therapeutic benefits of working collaboratively with people who are marginalised from mainstream life.

During his lecture on 8 November, Peter Connolly from the York Archaeological Trust, will outline the Trust’s recent excavations in York. The series will end with a lecture by Dr Cath Neal from the University’s Department of Archaeology on 22 November. Dr Neal will provide a fascinating insight into the discoveries made during a pre-construction archaeological investigation on the site of the University’s campus expansion at Heslington East.

Dr Penny Spikins, from the University’s Department of Archaeology, who organised the series of lectures, said: “I'm really looking forward to hearing more about some of the latest research into our wonderfully rich archaeological heritage here in York.”